> [!warning] Important Notice: >The awards and achievements described herein are currently under development and should be considered preliminary. The details provided are intended to serve as examples of what we aim to offer. Please note that these descriptions are subject to change as we continue to refine and enhance our award offerings. > # Technology with a Concentration in Technology ### Preamble In the ever-evolving realm of technology, the ability to innovate, understand, and apply technological solutions is paramount. The "Technology with a Concentration in Technology" award is designed to foster a profound understanding and adeptness in technology among cadets, preparing them to become leaders in a world increasingly driven by technological advancements. This award series champions the cultivation of essential skills ranging from basic computer operations and coding to sophisticated disciplines such as robotics and system architecture. As cadets progress through the three levels of this award, they embark on a journey that not only enhances their technical acumen but also instills a robust analytical mindset necessary for solving complex problems and innovating for the future. By engaging in this structured progression of technological exploration and achievement, cadets are encouraged to harness their creativity and critical thinking skills. This prepares them not only to contribute to, but also to shape and lead in the fields of technology and engineering. The "Technology with a Concentration in Technology" award is a testament to the cadet's commitment to mastering the skills that will define the technological landscapes of tomorrow. --- ![[Technology-Technology.png]] ### **First Achievement (Age 11-13)** *Objective:* Establish foundational technological skills with an emphasis on understanding computer systems, coding basics, and engaging in hands-on projects that demonstrate real-world applications of technology. **Duration:** 30-60 days **Tasks and Assignments:** - [ ] **Introduction to Computer Hardware:** - [ ] Attend a workshop to learn about the components of a computer system (CPU, motherboard, RAM, storage, etc.). - [ ] Disassemble and reassemble a computer under supervision to understand the physical structure and function of each component. - [ ] **Coding Fundamentals in Scratch:** - [ ] Complete an online course in Scratch programming, focusing on creating simple interactive stories or games. - [ ] Develop a Scratch project that incorporates basic programming constructs such as loops, conditions, and variables. - [ ] **Introduction to Robotics:** - [ ] Participate in a robotics workshop where cadets build and program a simple robot using kits like LEGO Mindstorms or Arduino-based robots. - [ ] Program the robot to perform tasks such as navigating a maze, simple object manipulation, or responding to environmental changes. - [ ] **Web Basics:** - [ ] Learn the basics of HTML and CSS through an online tutorial. - [ ] Create a personal webpage using HTML and CSS that includes text, images, links, and a simple CSS layout. - [ ] **Cybersecurity Basics:** - [ ] Attend a seminar on basic cybersecurity principles, focusing on personal online safety, password security, and understanding malware. - [ ] Pass a quiz testing their knowledge on how to protect personal devices and information online. - [ ] **Capstone Project:** - [ ] Apply the skills learned in a capstone project that requires integrating elements from the above tasks. For example, cadets could create an interactive resume in Scratch that includes links to their personal web page and showcases their robot project. - [ ] Present the capstone project to a panel of instructors and peers for review and feedback. **Evaluation:** - Completion of all tasks will be monitored and signed off by designated instructors. - The capstone project will be evaluated based on creativity, application of learned skills, and presentation quality. --- ![[Technology-Technology 1.png]] ![[Technology-Technology (2).png]] ![[Technology-Technology (3).png]] ### **Second Achievement (Age 14-15)** *Objective:* Expand on foundational skills by exploring advanced software engineering principles, intermediate robotics, and starting a basic understanding of app development. **Estimated Duration:** 60-90 days **Tasks and Assignments:** - [ ] **Intermediate Coding with Python:** - [ ] Enroll in an online course or workshop focusing on Python programming. - [ ] Complete a series of exercises to create Python scripts that handle file operations, data manipulation, and simple algorithms. - [ ] **App Development Basics:** - [ ] Learn the basics of mobile app development using a beginner-friendly platform such as MIT App Inventor. - [ ] Design and develop a simple app that serves a practical function (e.g., a calculator, a to-do list, or a simple game). - [ ] **Advanced Robotics:** - [ ] Participate in an advanced robotics workshop where cadets design and build robots capable of performing complex tasks using platforms like Raspberry Pi or Arduino. - [ ] Program the robot to perform complex maneuvers and integrate sensors to interact with its environment. - [ ] **Software Engineering Principles:** - [ ] Attend a series of webinars on software development life cycles, version control systems, and software testing methodologies. - [ ] Participate in a group project to develop a small software application using agile development techniques, incorporating regular updates and peer reviews. - [ ] **Introduction to Databases:** - [ ] Learn about database concepts and management systems through online tutorials. - [ ] Create a simple database and perform basic data operations using SQL. - [ ] **Capstone Project:** - [ ] Integrate the skills learned by developing a comprehensive project that involves app development, database integration, and if possible, robotics interfacing. - [ ] Present the project in a science fair or a similar competitive environment, demonstrating functionality, user interface design, and the benefits of the application. **Evaluation:** - Completion and functionality of the individual projects and the capstone project will be assessed. - Feedback will be provided based on the complexity of the tasks, the integration of various technology elements, and the presentation skills. --- ![[Technology-Technology (1).png]] ![[Technology-Technology (4).png]] ![[Technology-Technology (5).png]] ### **Third Achievement (Age 16-17)** *Objective:* Develop advanced technical skills in software architecture, complex app development, and system integration, preparing cadets for collegiate-level engineering challenges. **Estimated Duration:** 90-120 days **Tasks and Assignments:** - [ ] **Advanced Programming Concepts:** - [ ] Engage in a detailed study course covering advanced programming topics such as data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming in languages like Java or C++. - [ ] Implement various algorithms from scratch, such as sorting algorithms (quick, merge, bubble) and search algorithms (binary search, hash tables). - [ ] **Full-Stack Web Development:** - [ ] Learn full-stack web development including client-side (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and server-side programming (Node.js, Express.js). - [ ] Develop a web application that includes user authentication, database interactions, and server logic (e.g., a blog, an e-commerce site, or a social networking site). - [ ] **Mobile App Development:** - [ ] Advance mobile app development skills using platforms such as Flutter or React Native for cross-platform functionality. - [ ] Design and create a mobile app that integrates with real-time databases and APIs to provide dynamic content delivery and interaction. - [ ] **System Architecture:** - [ ] Study the basics of system architecture including the understanding of distributed systems, microservices, and cloud computing. - [ ] Sketch out the system architecture for a proposed application or service, explaining the role of each component and how they interact. - [ ] **Introduction to Machine Learning:** - [ ] Take an introductory course on machine learning, understanding fundamental concepts and algorithms. - [ ] Develop a simple machine learning model to solve a practical problem, such as image recognition or natural language processing, using a platform like Python's Scikit-Learn. - [ ] **Capstone Project:** - [ ] Develop a comprehensive technology project that incorporates advanced programming, app development, and an understanding of system architecture. - [ ] The project should solve a real-world problem or add significant value in a specific area (e.g., education, health, environment). - [ ] Present the project to a panel of experts in a tech expo format, including a detailed demonstration and technical discussion. **Evaluation:** - Projects will be evaluated on technical complexity, innovation, execution quality, and real-world applicability. - Feedback from the panel and peers will contribute to the final assessment. --- ### Policy Revision History | Revised On: | Revised By: | Revision Notes: | | ----------- | ----------- | ---------------------- | | 04/30/2024 | M. 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